Critical reading and text analysis

The ability to read critically and analyze texts is essential in the educational process and in everyday life. For people with dyslexia, this process can present unique challenges, but it also offers opportunities to develop valuable cognitive skills. In this session, we will explore the importance of critical reading, identify common challenges faced by people with dyslexia, and provide specific strategies to enhance these skills, thus promoting a deep and meaningful understanding of texts.

Introduction to Critical Reading and Text Analysis

• Definition and Meaning: Critical reading goes beyond the mere decoding of words; it implies the ability to evaluate, question and deeply understand the information presented in a text. Text analysis, on the other hand, focuses on breaking down the structure, identifying key elements and extracting meaning.

• Development of Critical Thinking: Critical reading is fundamental to the development of critical thinking. It allows readers to question information, discern between facts and opinions, and form informed judgments.

Challenges for People with Dyslexia

• Impact on Reading Speed: People with dyslexia may face challenges in reading speed, which in turn affects the ability to perform critical reading in the allotted time. Addressing these challenges requires specific strategies.

Strategies to Improve Reading Speed

• Decoding Training: Strengthening decoding skills contributes to more fluent reading. Specific exercises that focus on the phoneme-grapheme relationship are crucial.

• Reading Aloud Practice: Reading aloud allows for greater speed by linking decoding with oral expression. Regular practice improves fluency and speed.

• Deep Comprehension: Text analysis provides a deep understanding of the structure, themes and author's intentions. It facilitates the identification of key elements and the recognition of relevant information.

• Identification of Structures: Teaching how to identify textual structures, such as introduction, development and conclusion, improves the ability to analyze the organization of a text.

• Summary and Synthesis: Practicing synthesis and summary writing strengthens the ability to identify